Hi....I'm a nursing student about to graduate in December......I would suggest working as a PCT (patient care tech) or if your hospital has a student nurse postion that's even better. You'll be able to get hands on experience working with patients and a feel for what its like to work in a hospital. I didn't start working as a PCT until 2 months after I started nursing school, and at the time wished I had started working there sooner. Also, when it comes time for you to graduate nursing school some institutions will give you a higher rate of pay for having the extra experience. Besides, if you get into the hospital and for some reason find out its not for you, you can save yourself time and money and redirect your career path. In my opinion, student nurses who work in the hospital have a slight advantage over those who don't work in the hospital during their schooling.